Level 2: Yin Yoga & Taoism Teacher Training

Ancient Wisdom for Contemporary Practice

Taoist metaphysics and the Chinese Meridian System are the keystones of Yin Yoga, which is especially effective for nourishing and invigorating life force energy, called Qi. Sometimes referred to as “the spark in the machine,” Qi animates the body while also providing the material basis for the body itself. Optimal Qi flow is essential for wellbeing and vitality.

Qi circulates through channels called meridians, which some researchers believe are housed within the body's ubiquitous connective tissue. As with acupuncture and acupressure, you can manipulate Qi-flow with the floor-based Yin Yoga postures. Through this gentle form of “exercise,” you can balance the energy system and improve your sense of vitality and wellness.

In this live online course, you’ll learn how to use the insights and wisdom of Taoism and the Chinese Meridian System to assess your current physical, energetic, emotional, and mental wellbeing and design Yin Yoga practices that address your unique needs. Teachers will also learn how to apply these theories to design transformational Yin Yoga classes.

"This class really helped me understand the connections between the theory of Taoism, the manifestation and functions of Qi, Five-Element Theory, and Yin Yoga. I started to use some of the concepts in my own practice and have started to gain a deeper understanding of my own energy in asana. Rather than just doing a routine practice, I now ask myself what by body, my emotions, and how environmental factors can be addressed each time I take to the mat." ~ Susan R.

Learning Objectives

Taoism and Chinese Medicine can, at times, seem really complicated. The truth is that not everything is applicable to lay people or within the scope of practice of yoga teachers.

While this course is comprehensive, we'll focus just on the aspects of these teachings that are applicable and practical for yoga teachers and practitioners alike*.

History & Philosophy of Taoism - Learn about the history, core beliefs, and practices that promote wellbeing and longevity.

Yin & Yang Metaphysics - Develop a sophisticated understanding of how the interplay between Yin & Yang energies permeate all aspect of life and how to assess your own harmonies and imbalances.

The Three Treasures: Jing, Qi, & Shen - A human life is comprised of these essential ingredients. Learn about the ways in which our lifestyle serves to enhance or deplete them. We'll also explore the ways in which a yoga practice can support them.

Chinese Meridian Theory & Practical Application for Yin Yoga - Learn the functions of the internal organs through the Chinese Medicine lens, the location of the meridians that circulate Qi, and develop an understanding of how Yin Yoga can support better organ function.

Qi Cultivation - Learn Taoist visualization and breathing practices that nourish and enhance the energy body. You'll also learn when and how to incorporate them into Yin Yoga classes.

Designing Personalized Practices Through Self-Assessment - Learn techniques to assess your own or a client's needs to design highly personalized practices.

Creating Yin Yoga Class Plans That Harmonize the Energy Body - Learn a variety of ways to put theory into practice and design thoughtful experiences for your students.

Five Element Theory & Application - How to apply seasonal and elemental considerations to your personal practice and teaching.

*This course is open to any Yin Yoga teacher that has already studied Yin Yoga asana with Jennifer O'Sullivan or another qualified teacher. Practitioners, it's highly recommended that you have a strong familiarity with Yin Yoga postures before registering for this program. This course does not cover how to do specific poses, but rather focuses on how to put them together for enriching practice experiences.



Your Investment Includes...

Jennifer brings a compassionate approach and talent for making complicated material accessible and interesting. You'll get lifetime access to the following:

  • 50 hours continuing education credits with Yoga Alliance US (39 contact, 11 non-contact)
  • Printed manual
  • Access to Jennifer's weekly virtual Yin Yoga class on Monday evenings for during the course ($90 value)
  • Office hours with Jennifer via Zoom
  • Lifetime access to recordings

"Another illuminating course from Jen! Her Taoism and Yin course covered history and philosophical foundations of Yin Yoga as well as practical ways of incorporating these principles in teaching Yin classes. My teaching is definitely enriched by this course. " ~ Patricia J.

Get to Know Your Instructor

Jennifer O'Sullivan has been teaching yoga and meditation in the Washington, DC area for more than 20 years after completing her first training in 2004. She has studied with exemplary yoga teachers from a number of disciplines but is most influenced by Don and Amba Stapleton of Nosara Yoga Institute and Sarah Powers. Jennifer is also endorsed by Sarah Powers to teach Insight Yoga, a heart-centered approach that weaves together yin and yang Yoga, Taoism, Buddhism and spiritual psychology.

Jennifer has completed nearly 1000 hours of Yin Yoga, biomechanics, and fascia physiology training and education with some of the most renowned teachers including Sarah Powers, Paul Grilley, Biff Mithoefer, Tom Meyers, and Jules Mitchell.

She is also greatly inspired by the mindfulness teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh and Bhante Gunaratana with whom she has sat several retreats. Jennifer received the Five Mindfulness Trainings (precepts) and her spiritual name from Thich Nhat Hanh. She continues her Buddhist studies through various centers across the US.

For 15 years, Jennifer has offered innovative in-person and online yoga programs, Jennifer sees herself a force-multiplier, educating yoga teachers around the world to share depth practices that truly transform lives.

“Super interesting course. I wanted to go more in-depth with my Yin Training and succeeded. Really good info on how you could integrate Chinese Medicine into your Yin practice.” ~ Carla P.

Availability

Jennifer is on semi-sabatical and teaching very part time through spring 2027. But this course is available by request. If you have a group of at least 6 participants, get in touch to discuss next steps.

“I have been teaching Yin Yoga for three years now and felt that I needed to go to the next level in terms of my understanding. Jen's course provided me with just what I was looking for. She presented a sometimes confusing subject in a comprehensive and clear way. The lectures were informative and really interesting. Jen clearly loves her subject and is a very generous teacher. I would highly recommend this course. ” ~ Yvonne P.

“I thoroughly enjoyed this course and learned so much from all the webinars, written material and resources. Jennifer's vast knowledge of Yin Yoga and Taoism is exceptional. She is a patient and responsive teacher who has truly immersed herself into these subjects.” ~ Joanna A.